BEMIDJI — The West Fraser wood engineering plant west of Bemidji was one of three companies to receive part of $4.2 million in business expansion grants from the state.
The state's Department of Employment and Economic Development stated in a news release that the three projects are expected to create or retain 587 jobs and leverage more than $270 million in private investment.
West Fraser plans to renovate an existing building and improve the operating site in the small community of Solway. The operation there produces engineered wood products, such as OSB or particle board, that are used widely in construction and other industries.
The project will receive more than $1 million in financing from the state's Job Creation Fund, with the company expected to invest $137 million. The project is expected to retain 132 jobs.
"DEED's business expansion programs create unique opportunities for businesses to boost local economies by creating jobs and stimulating local markets," stated DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek in a news release. "I look forward to seeing the positive impact felt not only by these communities, but also by the companies expanding there."
Other individual projects awarded loans in this round included the Louis Industries steel plant in Paynesville and the Boston Scientific medical technology facility in Maple Grove.
-
Contributed/University of Minnesota Press photosIn "What Doesn’t Kill Me Makes Me Weirder and Harder to Relate To," Lucia reflects on her life in radio, surviving stalking and why she chose to tell her story. -
Events this week include ConnectEffect in Brainerd, a rummage and bake sale at the Bemidji Senior Center and an art class in Pine River. -
During the Phenology Report for the week of Jan. 20, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on winter porcupines, woodpecker behavior, and aspen flower buds. -
Contributed/Jimmy Emerson via FlickrPermits are needed to visit the Boundary Waters in May through September. The Superior National Forest encourages planning your backcountry trip and only reserving permits you can use. -
Contributed/US House Clerk YouTube screenshotThe area is located in the Rainy River Watershed, next to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and contains deposits of copper, nickel and cobalt. -
Contributed/Jennifer CarnahanThe Nisswa City Council advised its attorney in December 2025 to draft a resolution censuring Mayor Jennifer Carnahan, which passed unanimously on Jan. 20, 2026. -
The Jan. 28, 2026, meeting will give the public an opportunity to provide feedback on the DNR's proposed changes to the Public Waters Inventory list as part of a statewide update effort. -
Nicole Neri/Minnesota ReformerKlobuchar’s candidacy has relieved some Democratic donors and operatives anxious that the fraud scandal that tanked Tim Walz’s reelection campaign would cost them control of state government. -
Contributed/Nicole Neri / Minnesota ReformerCiting the killing of Renee Good by federal agent Jonathan Ross, the “ICE Out” day organizers say the general strike is intended to be a day of nonviolent reflection. -
In this episode, Charlie Mitchell and Heidi Holtan are inspired by the feisty nature of red squirrels and learn about woodpeckers.Send us a voice memo through Speak Pipe!
